Arsenal to award Hector Bellerin bumper new deal to ward off interest from Barca
Three years left on young Spaniard's contract but Gunners must act now to avoid repeat of 'Fabregas situation' in 2011
ARSENAL are looking to fend off interest from Barcelona in Hector Bellerin by offering the full back a lucrative new deal that could be worth up to £75,000 a week.
The Spaniard is contracted to the Gunners for another three years but pressure from the Spanish champions, and expected interest from a host of other top clubs, means the Emirates board must act now.
With Dani Alves expected reported to be leaving the Nou Camp this summer, Barca need a replacement and Bellerin fits the bill.The 21- year-old spent eight years in the Barcelona youth set-up before moving to north London in 2011.
Since then he has established himself as Arsenal's undisputed first-choice right back and, along with midfielder Mesut Ozil, was among the club's top performers in the Premier League. He's also at the Euros with Spain.
The Gunners are well aware five years ago they lost Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona when he couldn't resist the lure of a return to the club where he grew up.
But Bellerin is less likely to become embroiled in a similar saga. Insiders suggest he is happy at Arsenal - but obviously wouldn't turn his nose up at a better deal.
Arsene Wenger is believed to think he deserves a new offer and will recommend as much.
Bellerin is thought to be on £45,000 a week - and that could almost double to £75,000.
Looking back on his decision to leave Spain, Bellerin said: “It was a really hard decision for me to leave Barcelona when I was 16 but now I am happy that I took that chance because things have gone really well at Arsenal.
“Playing for Barcelona’s academy team and breaking all kinds of records was a great experience for me, but then I had the chance to catch the Arsenal train and I took it.
“The idea of playing for one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League was a real attraction, but it was the idea of working for Arsene Wenger which really sold the idea to me.
“I know he is a man who likes to bring up young players and I knew if I was doing well that he would give me the chance. And that is how it has turned out.
“He told me that if I worked hard and made the right progression then I could play for the first team. He showed faith in me and I am happy I have been able to justify his trust.”